Rat Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Rat Terrier is a practical American farm dog that worked as a pest controller, hunter and companion. It is sturdy, athletic and remarkably long-lived, and it fits active families who like to do things.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the United States from terriers brought by British immigrants, mixed with other breeds such as the Whippet and Italian Greyhound for speed. Farmers valued their ability to clear barns of rats. Rat Terriers come in miniature and standard sizes, with a lean, muscular body, a short, glossy coat and V-shaped or erect ears. Colors are often white with patches of tan, black or chocolate.

Temperament

Rat Terriers are intelligent, playful and affectionate. They are usually friendly with family and enjoy learning. They can be energetic and curious, and they like to dig and chase small animals. With strangers they may be reserved. Early socialization produces a confident adult. They often get along with other pets raised alongside them, although small rodents may be at risk.

Exercise

Expect high activity. Aim for an hour or more of daily exercise, including walks, play and training. They enjoy agility, flyball, lure coursing and earthdog trials. A bored Rat Terrier digs and barks, so provide jobs. Secure fencing is essential since they are good escapees.

Training

Rat Terriers are smart and often eager to please. They respond to rewards and varied games. Training should include recall, leave-it and impulse control. See recall training guide. They may be stubborn about house training, but consistency usually works.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs a weekly brush and occasional baths. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, check ears and brush teeth. They shed moderately year-round. Provide coats in cold weather for the smaller types.

Health considerations

The breed is generally healthy, but topics include:

• Luxating patella. See luxating patella in dogs
• Allergies and skin problems. See dog skin allergies
• Hip dysplasia and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
• Heart disease
• Dental disease. See dental disease in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Primary lens luxation, with a DNA test available

Living with a Rat Terrier

They suit active homes with outdoor access. Provide chew toys and a digging area. Keep small pets safe. Many enjoy hiking and travel.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, leaving fence gaps and skipping socialization. Some owners let them chase wildlife, which can be dangerous. Provide structure and meaningful tasks.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about DNA tests for primary lens luxation and other known conditions, patella and hip checks, and the parents' temperament. Ask which size variety is offered and how puppies are socialized with noises and other animals.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Rat Terrier suits active, outdoorsy owners who want a smart small dog with a long lifespan. It may not suit someone wanting a couch dog or with pet rodents. For a similar small terrier, see the Toy Fox Terrier.

A sample day

A busy Rat Terrier might enjoy a brisk morning run or walk, a scent game in the garden and a training session after lunch. Evening can include a game of fetch or a short hike. Give them a digging box and puzzle toys, and keep a regular bedtime routine so they settle.

Costs and commitment

Budget for food, vet visits, parasite prevention, training classes and fence repairs. Rat Terriers often live well beyond fifteen years, so plan for a long relationship and senior care. See dog vet cost guide.

The takeaway

Rat Terriers are quick, sturdy and versatile, and they thrive with exercise, jobs and secure fencing.